6 Healthier Substitutes for Things You Eat Every Day

“Healthy” doesn’t always sound appetizing. It conjures the
bitter taste of kale salad, a plate of bland grains we’ve never heard of, or a
giant bowl of something that leaves our taste buds dissatisfied and our
stomachs grumbling an hour later. Brownies, creamy soups, carbohydrates,
butter, and mayo definitely don’t make the “healthy” cut. Or do they? Chicory
has compiled a list of six substitutes that can easily take the guilt out of
your guilty pleasures.

1. Coconut Oil. Try substituting this healthier oil for margarine or
for vegetable or canola oil in your recipes. It’s rich in lauric acid, which
helps manage blood sugar and cholesterol in the body. It’s also easy to digest,
boosts your metabolism, and improves your immune system with antibacterial and
antifungal properties. Bonus: It’s excellent for you skin and hair!

2. Yogurt + Cottage Cheese. By combining equal parts low fat yogurt
and cottage cheese in a blender, you can replace sour cream. This easy combo is
much lower in fat content, has the same color and consistency of sour cream,
and is fewer calories. Bonus: Both ingredients double as healthy meals or meal
supplements!

3. Cauliflower. If you grate steamed cauliflower, it has the same
color, consistency, and taste of rice. This carb-less substitute is an easy
must for cooks looking for healthy, hearty dishes that won’t lull your diners
to sleep at the table.

4. Applesauce. A common substitute for dairy-free diners, applesauce
can take the place of butter in any baking recipe. Try making your own
applesauce from scratch for a truly unique recipe! Other options: Avocado puree
or pureed baby prunes can also take butter’s place in your favorite baked
goods!

5. Black beans. Try using dried black beans instead of flour in your
baked beans. Be warned: unless you are aiming for brown dough or dark sugar
cookies, stick to brownies and quick breads. Other options: Almond meal also
works as a great nutty flour substitute for muffins and breads!

6. Quinoa. Oatmeal, while a favorite breakfast food, is loaded with
carbohydrates and often does not offer any nutritious grains. Try making quinoa
with milk instead; a carbohydrate-filled breakfast is transformed into a
protein-based, vegetarian (or vegan) meal. Bonus: It’s just as filling as
oatmeal, and you can use the quinoa you buy for lunch and dinner recipes, too!

Most of these ingredients, except for maybe the coconut oil,
are items you probably already have in your kitchen. Make the most of your
homemade meals and your kitchen cupboard by switching out common ingredients
for these healthier—and just as common—substitutes.